Is co-op housing covered by the Residential Tenancies Act in New Brunswick?

No, co-op housing is governed by the Co-operative Associations Act and co-op bylaws, not the Residential Tenancies Act.

How can I become a co-op member?

You apply via a Membership Application Form, attend an interview, and agree to follow the co-op’s rules and pay housing charges.

Can I be evicted from a co-op?

Yes, eviction can occur but only if the co-op’s internal removal process is followed, with notices and a membership vote.

What happens if I have a dispute with the co-op board?

You should use the co-op’s complaint process. If unsatisfied, contact the Financial and Consumer Services Commission for help.

Are my belongings protected if I leave the co-op?

You are responsible for your belongings until you officially end your membership and vacate the unit.

Co-Operative Housing Rights for Members in New Brunswick

Special Tenancy Situations New Brunswick published June 14, 2025

Co-operative (co-op) housing offers a unique way to live as a member-owner, rather than as a traditional tenant. In New Brunswick, knowing your rights and responsibilities as a co-op member helps ensure you enjoy a fair and supportive living environment. This guide covers key aspects of co-operative housing, regulations, and how you can protect your interests.

What is Co-Operative Housing?

Co-operative housing is managed by its members, who are both residents and decision-makers. Instead of paying rent to a landlord, you pay housing charges to the co-op, and vote on important decisions affecting your home. This model is structured to support affordable, community-oriented living.

Governing Laws and Where to Get Help

Co-op housing rules in New Brunswick are governed mainly by the Co-operative Associations Act, not by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) that covers most tenant-landlord relations. Your main point of contact for housing disputes is usually the co-op’s board, but some issues—like non-payment or safety—may involve provincial agencies or even local law enforcement.

If you want a summary of how general rental rights in this province compare to co-op rights, check out Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in New Brunswick.

Membership Rights in New Brunswick Co-Op Housing

As a co-op member, you have rights that include:

Voting on major co-op decisions (such as maintenance budgets, policy changes, or board elections)
Access to meeting minutes, financial reports, and legal bylaws
Right to be treated fairly, without discrimination
Protection against removal or eviction except following the co-op’s proper internal processes
Requesting reasonable repairs and a safe environment

Forms and Practical Examples

Some key documents and forms for co-op members include:

Membership Application: Required to become part of a co-op. Review, fill, and submit this to the co-op board with supporting documents. Your application may request income details, references, and consent to co-op rules. See Co-op Membership Application Form (PDF).
Notice of Meeting: Co-ops must formally notify all members before important meetings, such as elections or bylaw amendments. Notices should include time, date, purpose, and agenda.
Complaint Form: If you have grievances about management, discrimination, or housing conditions, submit this to the board. Some co-ops have a standardized complaint form. If your complaint involves health or safety, you can also contact provincial authorities.

If you want to be sure your co-op’s health standards meet provincial rental norms, see Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Responsibilities of Co-Op Members

Living in a co-op comes with key duties:

Pay monthly housing charges on time
Participate in meetings and vote on key issues
Follow co-op bylaws, community policies, and respectful conduct rules
Help maintain common spaces (e.g., snow removal, garbage, or small repairs as required by the co-op)
Address any disturbances that may affect other members

If you are unsure about your exact responsibilities, review your co-op’s rule book and schedule a discussion with the board.

How Are Disputes Handled in Co-Op Housing?

Most disputes—such as disagreements about housing charges, noise, or meeting procedures—should first be addressed through the co-op board or a designated committee. Many co-ops offer a multi-step dispute resolution process:

Discuss with the other party or a member of the board
File a written complaint
Participate in mediation, if offered
Bring unresolved issues to a general membership meeting for a vote

If you believe your removal from membership was unfair, you may be able to appeal internally or consider legal advice. The New Brunswick Financial and Consumer Services Commission (FCNB) can assist with co-op governance issues.

Ending Your Co-Op Membership and Leaving

If you intend to leave co-operative housing, you must usually provide written notice, as detailed in your co-op’s bylaws (commonly 30–60 days). Confirm the expectations for cleaning, handing in keys, and your last day of responsibility to ensure a smooth exit. Consider these moving-out tips:

Review your co-op’s exit checklist and return all keys/fobs
Clear your belongings and assist with common area tidying if required
Request a final inspection and ensure your financial account is settled

Learn about best practices for moving out in rental scenarios by reading Moving Out Tips: A Tenant's Guide to a Smooth Rental Exit.

Rent Increases, Repairs, and Safety in Co-Ops

Housing charges in a co-op (which replace "rent") can only be raised if the members vote to approve an increase, following proper notice procedures according to the bylaws.

Repairs are usually a shared responsibility: the co-op handles most major work, while members may need to manage minor maintenance. Report any health or safety issues immediately to both the co-op board and, where appropriate, to provincial agencies. For broader repair and maintenance guidance, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

Summary

Becoming familiar with your co-op’s unique rules, and New Brunswick provincial law, is essential for a positive member experience. Always check your bylaws, use official forms, and ask questions whenever you face uncertainty.

Looking for other rental opportunities or comparisons? Explore Houseme for nationwide rental listings.

FAQs About Co-Operative Housing in New Brunswick

Is co-op housing covered by the Residential Tenancies Act in New Brunswick? No, it is governed by the Co-operative Associations Act and your co-op’s own bylaws, not the RTA.
How can I become a co-op member? Submit a Membership Application Form to the co-op, attend an interview, and agree to follow all rules and pay monthly housing charges.
Can I be evicted from a co-op? Yes, but only if the co-op’s internal removal process is followed. This often involves warnings, a meeting, and a membership vote.
What happens if I have a dispute with the co-op board? Use the co-op’s complaint process first. If unresolved, contact the Financial and Consumer Services Commission for advice.
Are my belongings protected if I leave the co-op? You remain responsible for your belongings until you officially end your membership and vacate the premises.